GOP Rep Gamed Exit To Benefit Potential Successor

The Washington Post reports:

On Friday, Rep. Bill Posey became the latest member of Congress to announce his retirement plans unexpectedly in a way that benefited an ally and prevented voters from having as much of an electoral choice as they otherwise would have. Call it the filing-deadline two-step — an undemocratic dance if there ever was one.

Posey qualified for reelection two months ago and even received an endorsement from Donald Trump last month. But shortly after Florida’s qualifying period closed Friday at noon, Posey suddenly announced his retirement — citing “circumstances beyond my control.”

That cleared the way for former state Senate president Mike Haridopolos (R), who had quietly filed for the primary that morning. Posey in his announcement quickly endorsed Haridopolos, who was left without big-name opposition.

Read the full article. Only a handful of states have rules in place to prevent gaming an exit announcement to benefit a potential successor. Florida does not.

Analysis by Aaron Blake: Rep. Bill Posey’s (R-Fla.) well-timed retirement — well-timed for his chosen successor, at least — follows a long line of such ploys. https://t.co/jhhgXxlAhF

— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) April 30, 2024